Is Marketing the Right Career Path for Me?
The marketing and business field attracts diverse candidates. Some aim to work with specific products and services, while others pursue the field for its flexibility. In general, however, marketing and sales careers appeal to individuals with strong communication and organizational skills. Professionals usually possess high levels of self-confidence and initiative.
You Might Enjoy a Career in Marketing and Sales if You…
Have effective interpersonal skills
Believe in your skills and abilities
Enjoy problem-solving and overcoming challenges
What Is an Online Associate Degree in Marketing?
Associate degrees in marketing equip students with knowledge related to promoting goods and services. In addition to teaching learners marketing and selling strategies, most marketing degrees at this level offer general business and marketplace training.
Typically, an online associate degree in marketing features approximately 60 credits and takes students two years to complete. Learners often encounter general education and interpersonal training, along with coursework in research and management.
While many graduates enter the workforce after completing their associate degrees, these programs also provide an entryway to further education. Associate degree-holders can often transfer their credits directly to online bachelor's degrees in marketing to save money when compared to a four-year degree.
Associate Degree in Marketing Courses
The exact curriculum in a marketing program varies by school, but students can expect to encounter some common courses along the way. In addition to general education and business foundation courses, enrollees may take the following marketing-specific classes:
- Professional selling
- Digital marketing
- Market research
- Advertising
- Consumer behavior
Marketing Skills Learned
Students can pick up human and technical skills that apply to most careers in marketing, including:
- Business communication
- Campaign planning
- Conducting market research
- Social media management
- Basic design
- Marketing technology
Choosing an Online Associate in Marketing Program
Prospective students need to consider multiple factors when choosing an online college to ensure it meets their needs and professional aspirations. As with on-campus schools, learners need to research program curriculum, specializations, and student services available.
They should also explore online-specific options, such as asynchronous vs. synchronous course delivery, if the school offers in-state tuition rates to online out-of-state students, and residency requirements.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Marketing Associate Degree?
Graduates with associate degrees in marketing can qualify for entry-level positions as marketing assistants, media planners, content creators, and brand representatives. They may work under promotions or advertising managers or take on sales-related roles.
Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives
Median Salary (2020): $65,420
Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives establish purchasing contracts and sell products to other businesses. They may help develop pricing and selling strategies and collaborate with technical experts to provide in-depth product information to their clients. Sales representatives also attend trade shows and research potential clients.
Advertising Sales Agents
Median Salary (2020): $54,940 per year
Advertising sales agents sell their organization's services to people and other companies. They may sell advertising space, single-piece ads and designs, or entire campaign management services. These agents create presentations, attend trade shows, and work with commercial printers to create the final products.
Insurance Sales Agents
Median Salary (2020): $52,180
Insurance sales agents sell insurance coverage and plans to individuals and organizations. They work with customers to determine the best coverage for their needs and expand their customer bases with various marketing and sales strategies. They provide consumers with policy information, oversee account changes, and process renewals.